ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA - EARTHWATCH 2018
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PLANNING CHECKLIST PLANNING CHECKLIST IMMEDIATELY 90 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION q Make sure you understand and agree to qP ay any outstanding balance for your expedition. Earthwatch’s Terms and Conditions and the q ook travel arrangements (see the Travel Planning B Participant Code of Conduct. section for details). q If you plan to purchase additional travel insurance, qM ake sure you have all the necessary vaccinations note that some policies require purchase at the time for your project site. your expedition is booked. 60 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION 6 MONTHS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION qR eview the packing list to make sure you have all the q Log in at earthwatch.org to complete your clothing, personal supplies, and equipment needed. participant forms. q If traveling internationally, make sure your passport 30 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION is current and, if necessary, obtain a visa for your qL eave the Earthwatch 24-hour helpline number with destination country. a parent, relative, or friend. q Bring your level of fitness up to the standards required qL eave copies of your photo ID and flight reservation (see the Project Conditions section). number with a parent, relative, or friend. READ THIS EXPEDITION BRIEFING THOROUGHLY. It provides the most accurate information available at the time of your Earthwatch scientist’s project planning, and will likely answer any questions you have about the project. However, please also keep in mind that research requires improvisation, and you may need to be flexible. Research plans evolve in response to new findings, as well as to unpredictable factors such as weather, equipment failure, and travel challenges. To enjoy your expedition to the fullest, remember to expect the unexpected, be tolerant of repetitive tasks, and try to find humor in difficult situations. If there are any major changes in the research plan or field logistics, Earthwatch will make every effort to keep you well informed before you go in to the field
TABLE OF CONTENTS NOTE FROM THE PI......................................... 2 THE RESEARCH............................................... 4 DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD................................ 7 ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD....................... 8 PROJECT CONDITIONS.................................. 10 POTENTIAL HAZARDS...................................11 HEALTH & SAFETY........................................ 12 TRAVEL TIPS................................................. 13 EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST.............. 14 PROJECT STAFF............................................ 16 RECOMMENDED READING............................ 18 LITERATURE CITED....................................... 20 EMERGENCY NUMBERS................................ 22 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 1
NOTE FROM THE PI DEAR EARTHWATCHER Welcome to the Elephants and Sustainable Agriculture in Kenya expedition! We have a dynamic, interesting, and knowledgeable team of Kenyan and US based researchers and field staff. We operate in a wildlife corridor between Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. The mix of grassland, savanna, Acacia-Commiphora dryland forest and several seasonal rivers and water pans in this region create a vital habitat for an amazing assemblage of wildlife. Juxtaposed in this biodiverse region is a growing human population reliant upon its natural resources and agriculture for livelihood, sustenance, and income. African elephants are an important ecological and economic force in this region. Elephants create and maintain critical resources for other species, thus befitting their moniker as ecosystem engineers. Elephants also serve as an appealing attraction for tourism, which brings revenue from more developed countries to this area. However, they are a wide-ranging species and the ever-expanding human settlements and agriculture continues to constrict their ranges and block their migration paths, resulting in perennial human-elephant conflicts. This conflict is pronounced when elephants raid farms and destroy crops, putting rural farmers’ lives and livelihoods in jeopardy. Our project strives to improve these farmers’ livelihoods and find harmony between them and the wildlife with which they share this ecosystem. We aspire to do this mainly by seeking ways of averting or reducing human-elephant conflicts and implementing climate-smart agricultural practices. As a core member of our team, you will facilitate in actualizing this harmony. We are fortunate to have Wildlife Works as a partner in our Earthwatch project. Wildlife Works has been conserving biodiversity in this ecosystem for nearly 20 years, more recently by tapping into the carbon markets through reducing land use-based greenhouse gas emissions under the UNFCCC’s REDD+ scheme. Thus, you will be living and working within an exciting, avant-garde environment conservation initiative that strives to achieve the noble, elusive goal of truly mutually-beneficial and sustainable coexistence of humans and wildlife. We trust you are equal to this challenge, and look forward to welcoming you to Kenya and Tsavo, the land of the red elephants. Karibuni sana!! Bruce Schulte, Mwangi Githiru, Urbanus Mutwiwa Earthwatch Scientists 2 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
THE RESEARCH ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA THE STORY The African elephant (Loxodanta africana), the largest land By the year 2050, humans will need to increase agricultural mammal on earth, is a majestic flagship species for production by 70 percent to meet the demands of a growing conservation in Africa, and has a vital role as an “ecosystem population (Godfray et al. 2010; Alexandratos and Bruinsma engineer,” (which simply means that it creates and maintains 2012). Besides, climate change—manifested through extreme critical habitats for other species). It is a wide-ranging species and often unpredictable weather events—poses additional that covers vast tracts of land every year in search of food, water threats to agriculture production in many parts of the world, and mating partners. This inevitably puts it on a collision path including sub-Saharan Africa. Achieving this increase in with humans in competition for limited space and natural production in the midst of today’s rapidly changing climate is resources. Indeed, in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, unlikely without transforming agricultural practices. In some elephants sometimes eat or damage farmers’ crops and parts of the world, scientists have begun to implement Climate- property, resulting in human-elephant conflict or “HEC” (Hoare, Smart Agriculture (or CSA), which involves reducing pesticide 1999; Naughton et al., 1999; Osborn and Parker, 2003; Mackenzie and herbicide use, planting new crops or crop varieties that are and Ahabyona 2012). This situation is actively playing out in the more resilient to a changing climate, agroforestry, and Tsavo Conservation Area, southeast Kenya, which is why it was improving soil, land, and water management systems. These selected as the setting for testing the ideas presented in this methods not only help to protect farmers’ livelihoods, they also Earthwatch project. Tsavo Conservation Area is adjacent to, but promote biodiversity and have important associated not a part of Tsavo National Park. conservation benefits. 4 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
RESEARCH AIMS This is a multidisciplinary project that sets to explore pragmatic means by which the harmonious coexistence of elephants and people can be achieved in the face of growing populations and a changing climate. Through Climate-Smart Agriculture, a combination of traditional and cutting-edge practices that simultaneously enhance biodiversity conservation and farm productivity will be trialed and, when successful, promoted. Climate-Smart Agriculture will involve a combination of a broad array of tactics and easily-accessible technology, including reduction in pesticide or herbicide use, integrated pest management approaches, agroforestry, new crops, crop varieties and cropping systems, and soil, land, and water management systems. These practices are deemed vital for enhancing resilience of farms to climate change shocks, as well as increasing biodiversity across the landscapes thereby delivering on multiple functions. A major outcome of the project is therefore to establish productive and sustainable farming systems that will have tangible biodiversity benefits, mainly through habitat creation and a reduction in conflicts. Ultimately, the project hopes to enhance the conservation of elephants and other wide-ranging species (especially large carnivores) by reducing the pressure to convert the dryland forest on this critical wildlife corridor into farmland. Additionally, the project is a mitigation and adaptation measure for these rural farmers who depend on rain fed agriculture against climate change, thereby building resilience into their livelihoods. Given the prevalence of these dual problems—climate change and human-elephant conflicts—in Kenya and other parts of sub- In this project, we employ an interdisciplinary approach to help Saharan Africa, the results from this study will also be shared find a way in which wildlife conservation and rural farmer with local, national and international stakeholders, so they can livelihoods can both thrive in this dryland ecosystem in the face help inform broader agriculture and human-wildlife conflict of growing human needs and a changing climate. In addition to policies and actions. promoting sustainable agriculture, this project will test the effect of various “repellents” on elephants, in an effort to keep them away from farmers’ crop fields. Scientists have found that simple repellents such as chili peppers and beehives (which have the added benefit of producing a useable product such as peppers or honey) may help to deter elephants from entering crop fields (Parker and Osborn 2006; King et al. 2009). This study will examine some of these and other methods to reduce crop raiding and ensure that humans and elephants can peacefully coexist in this delicate ecosystem. ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 5
HOW YOU WILL HELP As an Earthwatch volunteer, you will be mainly involved Keeping in mind that field conditions and research need can in three broad activities: wildlife surveys (within ranches), change team to team, some of the activities that may take habitat monitoring, and farm-based monitoring. place on volunteer teams include: For wildlife surveys, you will be largely undertaking road (1) Biodiversity and habitat surveys transects (mainly counting large mammals and birds), a. Road transects counting large mammals and birds conducting behavioral observations of elephants, and building b. B uilding the elephant identification database, and taking an elephant identification database based on mug shots of as behavioral observations of specific elephant groups many elephants/elephant groups encountered as possible; c. V egetation monitoring along transects radiating from thus, you will remain within ranches and on the vehicle most waterholes of the time. (2) M onitoring of large, indigenous trees in the agricultural For habitat monitoring, you will be primarily measuring trees matrix (Remote Sensing/GIS involved) in the agricultural landscape and measuring the impact of a. Making observations of their use by various taxa elephants on natural vegetation around waterholes. For tree b. Plant richness around the large indigenous trees monitoring, vehicles will bring your team close to the area with c. Inspecting them for damage by elephants tagged trees and you work in a group in that area, always near d. Checking on trees protected by wire and expanding the the vehicle, before driving to the next area. A Wildlife Works number of trees so protected ranger and experienced field staff will always accompany you. (3) Farm-based surveys For the farm-based monitoring, again, the vehicle will bring you a. Taking various farm/crop-related measurements to the farm or the closest point possible. In this case, there b. C ollecting and processing photographic records from might be some walking to get to some farms (typically less than camera traps a couple of kilometers from the drop off point at most), as well c. S oil sampling as walking around the farm undertaking various activities. Main activities will include making a detailed description of the crops on the farm, any deterrents in-place for repelling wildlife, setting up and checking camera traps, and during the harvesting season, estimating crop yields. You might also be involved in taking soil samples for analyses of organic matter content, to help check whether Climate-smart Agriculture does indeed help with carbon sequestration in the long-term. For this, you will be accompanied by local field staff as well as Kenyan members of the volunteer teams for ease of communication and to avert misunderstandings. 6 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD PLANS FOR YOUR TEAM DAILY ACTIVITIES We envision volunteers being involved in data collection in the field for about 6-8 hours per day inclusive of travel times, with another 1-2 hours possible for other activities in the camp including training, training evaluation, data inspection, and data entry/cleaning. It is worth emphasizing that transit time to study locations will involve drives through the ranch with many opportunities for wildlife sightings. Additionally, there will be time for enjoying wildlife as part of the overall experience, time conversing with staff and local people, and the unavoidable time waiting for elephants! ITINERARY TYPICAL RANCH (WILDLIFE / WATERHOLE TRANSECTS) DAY: 7:00–8:00 a.m. Breakfast & Briefing 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Fieldwork (including travel back to camp) 12:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m. Lunch & Rest (often back at camp) 2:00–3:30 p.m. Data entry, Briefings, Lectures, Films etc. 3:30–6:00 p.m. Fieldwork (including travel back to camp) 7:00–10:00 p.m. Dinner & Downtime TYPICAL COMMUNITY (ON-FARM / LARGE TREES) DAY: 6:00–7:00 a.m. Breakfast & Briefing 7:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Fieldwork 12:00–1:30 p.m. Lunch & Rest {on-site} 1:30–4:30 p.m. Fieldwork (including travel back to camp) 4:30–6:00 p.m. Data entry, Briefings, Lectures, Films etc. 7:00–10:00 p.m. Dinner & Downtime ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 7
ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD ABOUT YOUR HOME IN THE FIELD SLEEPING ELECTRICITY Accommodation will be provided at Kivuli Camp. Kivuli Camp is There is no regular electricity at Kivuli Camp. Power is through located at the heart of Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the a combination of generator and solar. It is recommended that seven ranches that constitute the Tsavo Conservancy and the you leave electrical equipment that requires a lot of energy (like first ranch to be certified on the REDD+ carbon scheme. hair dryers) at home to help conserve energy, or only use them Volunteers will stay in dormitory-style rooms at the camp with when the generator is on. The generator is typically on briefly in up to four people per room. These thatched huts contain four the morning for about 2 hours and for about 4 hours in the wild wood bunk beds with bedding and mosquito netting evening. Electrical sockets (outlets) in Kenya usually supply provided; bedding is changed for you periodically. electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. The standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of BATHROOM “Type G” or British BS-1363 type. If your appliance’s plug doesn’t There are communal flushing toilets and showers when using match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug the Dormitory Bandas (separate for ladies and gents); there is adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change generally no hot water at Kivuli Camp, but given the warm the shape of your appliance’s plug to match whatever type of weather a cool shower is a welcomed refresher! socket you need to plug into. They are NOT converters. If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100V-127V (as in the US, Canada and most South American countries), you may need a power (voltage) converter. To be sure, check the label on the appliance. If it states ‘INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz’, it can be used in all countries of the world, e.g., chargers for tablets/ laptops, photo cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes. 8 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION FOOD AND WATER There is some phone connectivity at the Camp, but it can be There are dedicated cooks and service providers at Kivuli Camp. sporadic. There is limited Internet access on Kivuli Camp, which The volunteers might be asked to assist in basic activities such is largely restricted to connection via mobile phones in select as bringing their plates back to the kitchen and tidying up. When spots across the camp. However, there is more reliable Internet doing community work or wildlife research in areas that renders (using Vsat technology) at the neighboring Wildlife Works Main it difficult to return for lunch, snacks and lunch bags will be Office. Volunteers can arrange emails to be sent out by staff to prepared for the volunteers and lunch will be eaten in the field. assure individuals at home of your safe arrival and continued It is generally not recommended to eat at very local restaurants status during the session. Heavy streaming can slow the without advice from the local field staff or Kenyan volunteers. Internet and quickly soak up allocated bandwidth; it is not You can however eat out in Voi during your recreational time, and permitted as the Internet is also used for work by Wildlife the field staff will be more than happy to guide you about the Works’ employees. best places to go. FACILITIES AND AMENITIES The following are examples of foods you may find in the field. Variety depends on availability. We appreciate your flexibility. The Camp’s setting affords you utmost privacy and tranquility; all you hear at night is the sound of the wild: elephants, hyenas, nightjars, plovers and the occasional lion. Morning is announced TYPICAL MEALS by a swell of bird calls joining the morning chorus. You will also BREAKFAST: Tea, Coffee, Milk, Hot chocolate, Bread (with experience the real African bush, and explore the fauna and jam and butter), Cereals, Eggs, Yoghurt, flora up close whilst on bush walks or enjoy the beautiful sunset Sausages, Pancakes, and Assorted fruits on top of one of the hills on the ranch. There is also a football LUNCHES AND Rice, Pasta, Potatoes, Chapati, Ugali (typical (soccer) pitch where you can unwind after work with a DINNERS: food akin to thick porridge made from maize kickaround (it can get very competitive out there!) flour), Meat (Beef, Mutton, Chicken and occasional Fish), Lentils, Beans, Peas, DISTANCE TO THE FIELD SITE Cow-peas, Cabbage, Kale, Spinach, French For both the activities within the ranch and on farms, the beans, Carrots, Capsicum, Tomatoes, Onions, in-season including Mango, maximum distance any team will have to travel from the camp Oranges, Avocado, Bananas, Passion fruit, is about 30km (ca 20 mi). Most farms, large trees, transects and Watermelon waterholes will be about 10–20km away. However, actual travel times will depend on both the wildlife encountered along the way BEVERAGES: For drinking, there are several dispensers and the terrain; average speeds in this terrain rarely reach around camp dispensing treated water bought from licensed and certified 40km/hr. (25mi/hr.). companies in Kenya. SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other food allergies, vegetarian or vegan diets) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms. The camp can accommodate special diets, such as vegetarian and gluten-free as long as they are informed in advance. Vegan diets are hard to accommodate. ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 9
PROJECT CONDITIONS THE FIELD ENVIRONMENT The Tsavo ecosystem is located southeast of Kenya and is ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS classified as an Arid-and-semi-arid Land (ASAL). It is hot during All participants must be able to: the day, and although it cools off at night, it typically remains above 20°C/68°F. The climate does not vary very much • Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently throughout the year, apart from cooling off slightly in July– or with the assistance of a companion August. Although, there are two rainy seasons, one between • Carry personal daily supplies such as water, cameras, October and December and the other from March to May, rainfall cameras traps, binoculars and other small field equipment is erratic and low and natural permanent water sources are very • Enjoy being outdoors all day in all types of weather, including limited. There are three major vegetation types in the Tsavo rain, heat, and humidity, in the potential presence of insects, ecosystem: Mixed Acacia- Commiphora woodlands, open snakes, and other wild animals grassland/savannas, and riparian/riverine vegetation. • Hike up to one kilometer per day over uneven terrain while The following are averages. Please check weather resources for carrying about 5-10kg of equipment your team dates for more accurate weather predictions. Projects • Collect data (images, samples, etc.) and search for animal have experienced unseasonable weather at all times of year. signs (scat, tracks) on the ground while moving over uneven terrain and steering clear of obstacles such as animal holes GENERAL CONDITIONS and sharp branches HUMIDITY: 40% to 90 % • Get low enough to the ground for extended periods of time to TEMPERATURE RANGE: 68°F–100°F( 20°C–38°C) measure plants, collect samples, and access camera traps ALTITUDE: 656–3281 ft. (200m to 1000m a.s.l.) • Get up into and down out of a four-wheel-drive vehicle, ANNUAL RAINFALL: 7.8–31.5 in (200mm to 800mm) minibus, or car and ride seated with seatbelt fastened The physical demands of the work could be described as 3–7 • Ride, seated, for extended periods (up to three hours a day) on a scale of 10, being higher for on-farm related activities. The in a four-wheel-drive vehicle in tight quarters. Much of the work will sometimes consist of some long days (early mornings research will be conducted from the project vehicles. and late evenings), working in hot sun, driving around bumpy • Be alert and ready to take evasive action (running quickly, terrain, walking up and down farms, construction of deterrent returning to the project vehicle, lying flat on the ground, fences, and some digging for soil sampling. None of this should depending on the situation) if the guard/ranger advises it be too much for a modestly fit individual, and with the right (e.g. if there is dangerous wildlife close by) preparation (e.g., re-hydration, sun screen, clothing and footwear). 10 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
POTENTIAL HAZARDS ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA HAZARD TYPE ASSOCIATED RISKS AND PRECAUTIONS Climate/Weather Dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, and other heat-related illnesses can occur, but you can protect yourself by drinking sufficient water, wearing high-SPF sunscreen, and wearing appropriate clothing and hats. Dehydration from sweating can be a problem; please bring your own water bottles that you can easily carry and refill with water and/or electrolyte-replacing packets. Transport Teams may encounter several road hazards, including large trucks, potholes, livestock and wildlife, rain/mud, dust, and/or poorly maintained tarmac or dirt/gravel (corrugated) roads. Only qualified drivers will transport volunteers in project vehicles. You must wear your seatbelt and always stay seated when vehicles are in motion. Volunteers are not permitted to drive. Terrain The terrain of the Tsavo ecosystem is mostly flat and undulating with acacia and Commiphora trees, various types of grasses, dirt and rock, with uneven areas. There are sometimes fields or paths on the farmland. Behavior on Wear modest clothing and appropriate footwear, including hiking boots with ankle support, while conducting agricultural land research on farmland. You will walk and work in only designated areas after receiving permission to do so. Avoid stepping on crops, and maintain awareness of your surroundings at all times. Your team will be instructed on appropriate behavior within the ranches. It is advised to always ask permission before taking photographs, and enter areas that are prescribed research areas only. Do not enter any private land or buildings that are not part of the research activities. Wildlife - Once in the field, you will be briefed on the necessary precautions associated with living and working in the midst of large mammals a wilderness area, particularly when walking in the open bush. You will receive a practical demonstration of bush ethics and safety during the safety briefing at the start of the expedition. Abide by the “go” and “no go” areas and never go anywhere alone. Remain alert while in the field and follow all instructions related to field communication, following distance, the use of hand-held radios, and responding to wildlife in close proximity. You must heed staff instructions and adhere to project rules and protocols at all times. The major large mammal threats will be in the form of elephants, buffaloes and big cats. Wildlife—snakes Kenya is home to many snake species, including both venomous and non-venomous snakes. The majority are non- venomous, but the main poisonous species of concern are black and green mambas, spitting cobras (brown, black- necked, and red spitting cobras; forest, Egyptian cobra), puff adders, and boomslang. You should watch where you walk; avoid reaching into the grass without seeing where your hand is being placed; check dark, moist, cool areas; be careful unfolding materials or equipment that has been stored and always heed staff instructions. Wear appropriate closed toed footwear in the field at all times. Insects Stinging and biting insects, such as ticks, bees, scorpions and mosquitoes are present in the region. Insect-borne diseases, such as chloroquine resistant malaria, Dengue, African tick fever, Rift Valley fever, filariasis, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis (river blindness), African sleeping sickness, and yellow fever are also present. Speak with your physician about malarial prophylaxis prior to fielding. If you have allergies to insect bites, bring appropriate medications (e.g. antihistamines, or at least two Epi-Pens if your allergy is severe). Take precautions to avoid bites/ stings by wearing appropriate clothing (long sleeves and long pants), and using mosquito nets and insect repellant. Personal There is security at the Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary project site, but avoid areas designated as off limits by project field staff. In Nairobi, as in many large cities, robbery and violent crime are serious issues. It is wise to take sensible precautions: travel through the city in pairs or groups, avoid displays of money or valuables, take taxis (Uber is recommended where possible for safety and costs), and avoid traveling alone, especially when going out at night. Terrorism is also an ongoing threat in Kenya; bomb attacks have occurred in Nairobi and the Mombasa region in 2013 and 2015. Exercise caution and always be vigilant especially in major cities, and avoid travel near border regions with Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. Diseases Diseases found in Kenya are hepatitis, rabies, HIV/AIDS, polio, tuberculosis, meningitis, measles, cholera, plague, typhoid, malaria, dengue fever, filariasis, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis, African tick bite fever, trypanosomiasis, schistosomiasis, and tuberculosis. Traveler’s diarrhea also affects many international travelers. You can decrease your risk of many diseases by avoiding mosquito bites, practicing good hygiene, and drinking only potable, bottled or filtered water when appropriate. Please see the CDC (cdc.gov) or WHO (who.int) websites for more information on these conditions and how to avoid them or consult with a travel doctor. If you feel ill once you return from your trip, make sure you inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region. ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 11
HEALTH & SAFETY ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD IMMUNIZATIONS & TRAVEL VACCINATIONS For emergency assistance in the field, please contact Please be sure your routine immunizations are up-to-date Earthwatch’s 24-hour emergency hotline number on the (for example: diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, last page of this briefing. Earthwatch is available to assist you mumps, rubella and varicella) and you have the appropriate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; someone is always on call to vaccinations for your travel destination. Medical decisions are respond to messages that come into our live answering service. the responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor, and the following are recommendations only. Visit cdc.gov or who.int for guidance on immunizations. If traveling from countries or region where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination. 12 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
TRAVEL TIPS SUGGESTIONS FOR THE ROAD YOUR DESTINATION CONTACT INFORMATION LANGUAGE: Swahili, English You may be required to list the following contact information on your visa application and immigration form, or if your luggage TIME ZONE: This time zone does not apply the Daylight Saving does not make it to baggage claim at your destination: Time (DST) scheme—it uses standard time throughout the year. The offset to Universal Time (UTC, GMT or Zulu) is +3:00 hours. Kivuli Camp Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary MONEY MATTERS P.O. Box 310-80300 LOCAL CURRENCY: Kenyan Shillings Voi, KENYA T: +254 (0)719 159671 PERSONAL FUNDS: It is recommended to convert the equivalent E: bookings@tsavoconservancy.com of about 200–300 USD to Kenyan Shillings before you arrive for personal expenditures and spending money. If you plan to stay in Nairobi for extra days, you may need a bit more. Tipping is not required in Kenya and where it is done, it is often included in the bill. At Kivuli Camp, a number of individuals on staff will be seeing to your food, housing, and transportation needs. At the end of the experience, you may wish to leave a gratuity for these individuals, but it is not required. PASSPORTS AND VISAS COUNTRY AND PROJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Entry visa requirements differ by country of origin, layover, and destination, and do change unexpectedly. For this reason, please confirm your visa requirements at the time of booking and, again, 90 days prior to travel. Please apply early for your visa (we recommend starting 6 months prior to the start of your expedition). Refunds will not be made for volunteers cancelling due to not obtaining their visa in time to meet the team at the rendezvous. You can find up to date visa requirements via one of the following sites: www.passportsandvisas.com www.travisa.com If a visa is required, participants should apply for a TOURIST visa. Please note that obtaining a visa can take weeks or even months. We strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process. Generally, passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a return ticket is required. Most travelers to Kenya require a visa and a fee to enter. As of July 1, 2015 you can apply for a Kenyan visa on the eCitizen website. The electronic system is now fully in place, but it will still be possible to purchase a visa upon arrival at the airport in Nairobi for $50. Volunteers can use either method to acquire their visa. ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 13
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST WHAT TO BRING EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST GENERAL CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR LEISURE q This expedition briefing qT wo sets of clothing to keep clean for end of expedition and for the recreation day q Y our travel plans, rendezvous details, and Earthwatch’s emergency contact information qS andals to wear around camp qP hotocopies of your passport, flight itinerary, and qC omfortable closed toe shoes for evenings in camp credit cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the FIELD SUPPLIES original documents qS mall daypack qP assport and/or visa (if necessary) q Insect repellent qC ertification of vaccination (if necessary) qW ater bottle(s) able to hold at least two liters qD ocumentation for travel by minors (if necessary) qA pair of binoculars (10 x 42 recommended) for wildlife viewing and for use during fieldwork CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR FIELDWORK qF lashlight/torch or headlamp with extra batteries and qE arthwatch T-shirt extra bulb qD ull, earth-toned colors (i.e. khaki or dark green) are qM echanical/click pencils for data recording required for all field clothing qW ork gloves qL ightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts (earthtoned) BEDDING AND BATHING qL ightweight trousers (earth-toned) NOTE: Mattress, fitted sheets, and pillows will be provided qW arm clothes for cool evenings and mornings (light by the project sweater/jumper/fleece, warm jackets, and/or thermals) qS heet bag (optional, but useful) qW ind-breaker and perhaps a light scarf for early qT owel mornings and late afternoons on the back of the open game drive vehicles PERSONAL SUPPLIES qT -shirts qP ersonal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are encouraged) qS horts qA ntibacterial wipes or lotion (good for cleaning hands qW ell worn-in, comfortable, sturdy hiking boots with ankle while in the field) support (do NOT bring brand new boots) qP ersonal first aid kit (e.g., anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics, qS ocks antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister qL ight rain wear (poncho or coat) covers, etc.) and medications qH at with wide brim to protect against sun qS pending money qA set of clothing that can get ruined with motor oil qS unscreen lotion with SPF 30 or higher 14 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST OPTIONAL ITEMS qT ravel guide qA daptor if your electronic equipment requires charging qM osquito net qP ocket knife (be sure to pack in checked luggage) qM usical instrument qS unglasses (these should not be worn during the transect as they may impair your ability to spot the animals) qS wimsuit for recreational time qF avorite snack foods qG ifts for the school (School supplies – pencils, pens and paper.) qG atorade or similar energy drink mix qE xtra batteries for the GPS units make a great donation to the project and are much appreciated—batteries are expensive in Africa qC amera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery qH ardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of the expedition qD ry bag or plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) to protect equipment like cameras from dust, humidity, and water qB ooks, games, art supplies, etc. for free time qE arplugs for light sleepers NOTE: Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. If traveling by air and checking your luggage, we advise you to pack an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed. ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 15
PROJECT STAFF YOUR RESOURCES IN THE FIELD DR. BRUCE SCHULTE is the Department Head of Biology and Professor at Western Kentucky University. Bruce is studying human livelihoods, biodiversity, elephant behavior, and ecosystem functions in the Tsavo ecosystem in Kenya, in partnership with Wildlife Works. His efforts are helping to conserve the region and ensure that humans and wildlife maintain a mutually beneficial, sustainable relationship. He is from upstate New York and received his BSc in biology from the College of William and Mary. He obtained a MSc in marine biology from the University of Southern California and his doctorate from the State University of New York—College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF). His doctoral work was on North American beaver, another ecosystem engineer. He has been studying elephants for over twenty years. DR. MWANGI GITHIRU is the Director of Biodiversity and Social Monitoring at Wildlife Works, leading teams assessing environmental and social impacts of REDD+ projects in Africa. Prior to this, Mwangi worked for the Kenya Government in the Ministry of Science and Technology. He received his BSc. from Moi University (Wildlife Management), his MSc. from Kenyatta University (Animal Ecology) and D.Phil. from the University of Oxford (Conservation Biology) as a Rhodes Scholar, before completing a three-year post-doc at the University of Antwerp as a Marie Curie Fellow. He is also a Watson International Scholar of the Environment Fellow (Brown University), an Archbishop Tutu Leadership Programme Fellow and a Kinship Conservation Fellow. In addition to teaching in various universities and advising numerous student projects including formal supervision of several MSc and PhD theses, Mwangi has authored numerous publications spanning book chapters, technical reports, scholarly and popular articles on a wide array of environmental issues. Though mainly trained in ecology, he is very interested with issues at the intersection of science-policy-conservation-economics, across Government and non-governmental sectors, academia and the private sector. DR. URBANUS N. MUTWIWA is a Senior Lecturer, Department of Biomechanical and Environmental Engineering, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He holds a PhD and MSc in Horticultural Sciences (Dr. rer. Hort), specializing in Biosystems Engineering (Hannover University, Germany) and a BSc in Agricultural Engineering (JKUAT). He is registered with Engineers Board of Kenya and is a member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya, Horticultural Association of Kenya as well as a registered Lead Expert EIA/EA with the National Environment Management Authority (Kenya). Dr. Mutwiwa lectures and supervises students both at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in agricultural structures, processing, and renewable energy. His research interests include controlled environment agriculture, value chain analysis, agro-processing and renewable energy systems. Dr. Mutwiwa has been working with communities to improve their household income and food security. Some of the projects he has been involved in include: Strengthening the Productivity and Competitive Position of Organized Smallholder Coffee Farmers in Kenya through the Implementation of a Quality Management Systems; strengthening the entrepreneurial skills of smallholder horticultural farmers (fresh beans and avocados value chains) in Central, Eastern and Rift Valley provinces. On climate change, he has been testing the usability of the Cool Farm Tool (CFT) to measure the carbon footprint of smallholder coffee cooperatives in Kenya. He has been involved in groups working on integrated watershed management in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. He has assessed the environmental impacts for projects in agro-processing and developed management plans to mitigate any negative impacts. 16 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
SIMON KASAINE is currently a research scientist at Wildlife Works Kenya, primarily assessing the social impacts of REDD+ projects in Kenya. Before moving back to Kenya from US, Kasaine worked as graduate assistant in Western Kentucky University (WKU) as caretaker of the Upper Green River Biological preserve in Kentucky and as graduate teaching assistant where he taught introductory biology labs for undergraduates. Previously also, he assisted graduate students from WKU in undertaking their academic fieldwork in Kenya. In Addition, he worked in hospitality industry as bar and restaurant manager at Base Camp, Maasai Mara Game Reserve. He earned his BSc. in Wildlife Management and Conservation from University of Nairobi and MSc. in Conservation Biology from Western Kentucky University, USA. His historical career path encompasses hospitality, biological and social. MR. BERNARD AMAKOBE is a researcher at Wildlife Works [K] ltd in the Biodiversity and Social Monitoring department. He is tasked with overseeing transects for wildlife counts, managing camera traps for passive mammal monitoring and conducting ecological surveys on Mt. Kasigau through bird- banding to assess climate change and global warming. He at the same time doubles as the Coordinator of the Ringing Scheme of Eastern Africa. Previously, Amakobe worked with the National Museums of Kenya and Nature Kenya in various capacities as a technician on ornithological expeditions and Bird Activities Coordinator respectively. He is a holder of a Diploma in Natural Resource Management from Nairobi University, and through hard work and dedication, he graduated last year (2015) with a BSc. in Environment Natural Resource Management from Africa Nazarene University. He is currently an EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered Species) Fellow, his focal species being the Secretarybird. The fellowship is facilitated by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). His career cuts across conservation, biological research and also behavioral ecology. His main interests are conservation and restoration of rangeland ecosystems, bird conservation, eco-tourism (which he believes is a form of sustainable resource sharing) and writing of both popular and scientific papers. MS. R. LYNN VON HAGEN is a MS student at Western Kentucky University (WKU) working with Dr. Bruce Schulte. Lynn has a BS in biology from Austin Peay State University in Tennessee. She has conducted research on the Louisiana water thrush and served as a wildlife care technician.. She is a graduate teaching assistant at WKU. She is conducting her MS thesis research in conjunction with the goals of the Earthwatch project. ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 17
RECOMMENDED READING YOUR RESOURCES AT HOME RESOURCES ARTICLES • Chiyo PI, Moss CJ, Alberts SC. 2012. The influence of life •M cKnight BL. 2015. Relationship between group dynamics history milestones and association networks on crop- and spatial distribution of African elephants in a semi-arid raiding behavior in male African elephants. PLoS ONE environment. African Journal of Ecology 53, 439-446. 7(2): e31382. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.003138 •N asseri NA, McBrayer LA, Schulte BA. 2011. The impact • Derham KS, Henley MD, Schulte BA. 2016. Wire netting of tree modification by African elephant (Loxodonta reduces African elephant (Loxodonta africana) impact to africana) on herpetofaunal species richness in northern selected trees in South Africa. Koedoe, 58(1), a1327. Tanzania. African Journal of Ecology 49, 133-140. Note - http://dx.doi. org/10.4102/koedoe. V58i1.1327. Covered by BBC: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science- • Githiru, Mwangi. 2015. Implementing REDD+: issues, environment-11607299 opportunities and challenges with an example from the •P inter-Wollman N. 2012. Human-elephant conflict in Kasigau Corridor REDD+ project, SE Kenya. XIV WORLD Africa: The legal and political viability of translocations, FORESTRY CONGRESS, Durban, South Africa, 7-11. wildlife corridors, and transfrontier parks for large • http://foris.fao.org/wfc2015/api/ mammal conservation. Journal of International Wildlife file/552e712d9e00c2f116f8ea03/contents/5f096493- Law & Policy 15, 152-166. c235-4811-aa9e-a815a7c13578.pdf •S chulte BA. 2016. Learning and applications of chemical • Goodyear SE, Schulte BA. 2015. Habituation to auditory signals in vertebrates for human-wildlife conflict stimuli by captive African elephants (Loxodonta africana). mitigation. In: Chemical Signals in Vertebrates 13 (BA Animal Behavior and Cognition 2, 292-312. Schulte, TE Goodwin & MH Ferkin, eds), pp. 499-510, Springer, New York. • Hoffmeier-Karimi RR, Schulte BA. 2015. Assessing perceived and documented crop damage in a Tanzanian •S hannon G, Page BR, Mackey RL, Duffy K, Slotow R. 2008. village impacted by human-elephant conflict (HEC). Activity budgets and sexual segregation in African elephants Pachyderm 56, 51-60. (Loxodonta africana). Journal of Mammalogy 89, 467-476. • Ihwagi FW, Chira RM, Kironchi G, Vollrath F, Douglas- •W ittemyer G, Northrup JM, Blanc J, Douglas-Hamilton I, Hamilton I. 2012. Rainfall pattern and nutrient content Omondi P, Burnham KP. 2014. Illegal killing for ivory influences on African elephants’ debarking behaviour in drives global decline in African elephants. Proceedings Samburu and Buffalo Spring National Reserves, Kenya. of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) 111, African Journal of Ecology 50, 152-159. 13117-13121. • K ing LE, Douglas-Hamilton I, Vollrath F. 2011. Beehive fences as effect deterrents for crop-raiding elephants: field trials in northern Kenya. African Journal of Ecology 49, 431-439. 18 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
RESOURCES BOOKS •D harani N. 2011. Field Guide to Common Trees & Shrubs • Adams JS, McShane TO. 1997. The Myth of Wild Africa: of East Africa. Struik Publishers. Conservation without Illusion. University of California •E stes, R. 1991. The Behavior Guide to African Mammals. Press, Calif. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press. NOTE: • Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Excellent for large mammal behavior. 2013. Climate Smart Agriculture Sourcebook. (available •L onely Planet Swahili Phrasebook, 5th edition. 2014. online as a free download). See also: https://ccafs.cgiar. Lonely Planet. org/climate-smart-agriculture-0#.V4PNmk0UWUk •S prawls S, Howell K, Drewes Rc. 2006. Reptiles and • Hume D, Murphree M (eds). 2001. African Wildlife & amphibians of East Africa. Princeton University Press. Livelihoods: The Promise and Performance of Community •S tevenson T, Fanshawe J. 2002. Field guide to the Birds of Conservation. Heinemann Press. East Africa. Princeton University Press. • K angwana K. 1996. Study Elephants. African Wildlife •W ithers MB, Hosking D. 2002. Wildlife of East Africa. Foundation Technical Handbook Series No. 7. African Princeton University Press. Wildlife Foundation (available as a pdf online). •Z immerman DA. 1999. Birds of Kenya and Northern • Mawere M. 2013. Environmental Conservation through Tanzania. Princeton University Press. Ubuntu and Other Emerging Perspectives. Langaa RPCIG, Cameroon. PROJECT-RELATED WEBSITE • Moss CJ, Croze H, Lee PC. 2011. The Amboseli Elephant: • Elephant Managers Association A Long-Term Perspective on a Long-lived Mammal. (http://elephantmanagers.com/) University of Chicago Press, Chicago, USA. • FAO UN Climate Smart Agriculture • Nyasimi M, Amwata D, Hove L, Kinyangi J, Wamukoya G. (http://www.fao.org/climate-smart-agriculture/en/) 2014. Evidence of impact: Climate-smart agriculture in • International Elephant Foundation Africa. The Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural (https://elephantconservation.org/) Cooperation (CTA) and CGIAR Research Program on • USF&W African Elephant Conservation Fund Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS). (https://www.fws.gov/international/wildlife-without- • W ilson EO. 2016. Half-Earth: Our Planet’s Fight for Life. borders/african-elephant-conservation-fund.html) WW. Norton & Company, Inc. New York, NY. • W ildlife Works: (http://www.wildlifeworks.com/) • W ilson EO. 2003. The Future of Life. Vintage Press, Visalia, Calif. EARTHWATCH SOCIAL MEDIA • Woodroffe R, Thirgood S, Rabinowitz A (eds). 2005. P • FACEBOOK: facebook.com/Earthwatch eople and Wildlife, Conflict or Coexistence? Cambridge • T WITTER: twitter.com/earthwatch_org University Press, UK. • INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/earthwatch NOTE: The two Wilson books are similar. • BLOG: blog.earthwatch.org FIELD GUIDES • YOUTUBE: youtube.com/earthwatchinstitute • Birnie A, Noad T. The Trees of Kenya: An Illustrated Field Guide. Zand Graphics, Kenya. • Dharani N. 2006. Field Guide to Acacias of East Africa. Struik Publishers. ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 19
LITERATURE CITED YOUR RESOURCES AT HOME LITERATURE CITED • A lexandratos N, Bruinsma J. 2012. World agriculture towards 2030/2050: the 2012 revision. ESA Working paper No. 12-03. Rome, FAO. • G odfray HCJ, Beddington JR, Crute IR, Haddad L, Lawrence D, Muir JF, Pretty J, Robinson S, Thomas SM, Toulmin C. 2010. Food security: the challenge of feeding 9 billion people. Science 327:812-818. • H oare RE. 1999. A standard data collection and analysis protocol for human-elephant conflict situations in Africa. IUCN African Elephant Specialist Group, Nairobi, Kenya. • K ing LE, Lawrence A, Douglas-Hamilton I, Vollrath F. 2009. Beehive fence deters crop-raiding elephants. African Journal of Ecology 47:131-137. • M ackenzie CA, Ahabyona P. 2012. Elephants in the garden: financial and social costs of crop raiding. Ecological Economics 75:72-82. • N aughton L, Rose R, Treves A. 1999. The social dimensions of human-elephant conflict in Africa: a literature review and case studies from Uganda and Cameroon. A Report to the African Elephant Specialist, Human-Elephant Task Force, of IUCN, Switzerland. Call number LAEBRA 1999/108, http://www.iucn.org/themes/ssc/sgs/afesg/hectf/pdfs/hecugcarev. pdf. • O sborn FV, Parker GE. 2003. Towards an integrated approach for reducing the conflict between elephants and people: a review of current research. Oryx 37:1-5. • P arker GE, Osborn FV. 2006. Investigating the potential for chilli Capsicum spp. to reduce human-wildlife conflict in Zimbabwe. Oryx 40:343-346. 20 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
NOTES ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018 21
EMERGENCY NUMBERS AROUND-THE-CLOCK SUPPORT 22 ELEPHANTS AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN KENYA 2018
MESSAGE FROM EARTHWATCH DEAR EARTHWATCHER, Thank you for joining this expedition! We greatly appreciate your decision to contribute to hands-on environmental science and conservation. It is volunteers like you who fuel our mission and inspire our work. While at Earthwatch, I’ve had the opportunity to field on a few expeditions, most recently in Kenya with one of my daughters. Each expedition has touched me deeply, and made me proud to be able to roll up my sleeves alongside my fellow volunteers and contribute to such meaningful work. As an Earthwatch volunteer, you have the opportunity to create positive change. And while you’re out in the field working toward that change, we are committed to caring for your safety. Although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, we’ve been providing volunteer field experiences with careful risk management and diligent planning for nearly 45 years. You’re in good hands. If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, we encourage you to contact your Earthwatch office. Thank you for your support, and enjoy your expedition! Sincerely, Scott Kania President and CEO, Earthwatch CONNECT WITH OTHER EARTHWATCHERS! FIND US ON FACEBOOK AT FACEBOOK.COM/ EARTHWATCH OR ON TWITTER @EARTHWATCH_ORG, AND ON YOUTUBE AT YOUTUBE.COM/ EARTHWATCHINSTITUTE
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